Whether she likes it or not, eighteen year old Celeste Garrett has come to terms with being the Chosen One. She knew having a “normal life” would be tricky, between intense training sessions and epic demonic battles, but she didn’t know at what cost it would come. That is, until a dear friend is harmed by the malicious forces hunting her.

Now, she’d like nothing more than to retreat into a hermit lifestyle to prevent anyone else from getting hurt. But startling revelations, amazing new abilities, and mortifying moments in front of insanely hot guys won’t allow time for that. Soon, Celeste finds herself surrounded by darkness and wondering who she can trust—if anyone.

Embrace follows on the story of The Conduit bringing to life the challenges which come from being The Conduit and holding with you the powers of someone very special…especially when you want to be just a normal girl. It’d be nice to go to work, go to college and date without confronting demons, but for Celeste, that’s not possible.

Her brother and sister are able to keep up their normal life (dating people met in The Conduit) but for Celeste, things aren’t that easy. Especially now when confronted with the Demon Glee Club. And yes, they do sing well, even performing for Gabe. Rourke has continued on with the puns that make you giggle, the situations that make you wince in sympathy as you watch Celeste trying to be a young woman- even when confronted with demons and a new guy who she really likes.

I love how Rourke continues on with the strong writing that is at once witty and vital to the storyline- even down to a lion wearing boxer shorts! That’s a visual you just won’t lose very easily, because even a week after reading it, I still occasionally giggle at the thought.

Sibling rivalry, a cheerleading gran and a bird woman all have one thing in common- they can make Celeste’s world a nightmare and make her want to groan. She learns more about her powers, the world and the darker world of the Countess- the bigger, badder demon who is trying to take over the world and twist it for her own cruel devices, even taking over the life of someone close to Celeste.

And just who is it leaving these scrolls on Celeste’s bed with the very cryptic messages she can’t even begin to understand?

Another 4.5/5 for Embrace, as I was disappointed by only one thing- the wait before I can read the next one!